Letters of Interpretation

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards, and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. Each letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed.

Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information.

These letters of interpretation and the standards they address may not apply to OSHA State Plans. State Plans are required to have standards and enforcement programs that are at least as effective as OSHA's and may have different or additional requirements. Please see OSHA-approved State Plans for more information.

NOTICE:

How to Request a Letter of Interpretation

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Date Title Standard Number
Clarification of the policy for classifying violations as repeated, as well as clarification of specific regulations. 1910.95
Hearing conservation standard questions. 1910.95
Use of insert earphones for audiometric testing. 1910.95(h)(2)
Noise exposure standard and impairment adjustments. 1910.95, 1910.95 App F
Occupational noise, including hearing conservation, in construction work. 1910.95, 1926.52
Recording of hearing loss on the OSHA 200 Log. 1910.95, 1904 - Table of Contents
Level of work-related hearing loss that must be recorded on the OSHA 200 log. 1910.95, 1904 - Table of Contents
Standard Threshold Shift in hearing level 1910.95
Recording on Hearing Loss on the OSHA Form 200 1910.95
Committing a de minimis violation when using an insert earphone designated as ER-3A. 1910.95
Recording Of Hearing Loss and Cumulative Trauma Disorders 1910.95
Retesting when audiogram shows employees have suffered STS shift 1910.95(g)(7)(ii)
Occupational noise exposure limits 1910.95(a)
Product endorsement policy and telephone headsets. 1910.95, 1910.7
Observation of monitoring requirement at 1910.95(f) in the occupational noise exposure standard 1910.95(f)
Noise inspection conducted at Robben's Roost, Louisville, Kentucky. 1910.95
Audiometric earphones to be reviewed for acceptability for audiometric testing. 1910.95(h)(2)
Identification of a standard threshold shift (STS) for individuals with a very poor sense of hearing. 1910.95(g)(10)
Policy concerning OSHA's Hearing Conservation Amendment 1910.95
Response to Freedom of Information Act request for standards and guidelines related to working around aircraft. 1910.95, 1910.1000